FAA Awards Garmin’s GFC 600 Autopilot Certification for Air Tractor AT-802
Avionics leader Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) has achieved a significant milestone with the receipt of the FAA Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for its GFC 600 digital autopilot. This certification applies to the Air Tractor AT-802 and AT-802A aircraft series, promising enhanced safety for aerial firefighting and agricultural aviation operators globally.
The STC, announced on June 17, 2026, also encompasses the Piper Matrix PA-46R-350T. Certification for the Cessna 310P/Q aircraft is expected to follow in July. The GFC 600 is equipped with advanced features such as:
- Solid-state attitude and heading reference technology
- Altitude preselect
- Indicated airspeed hold
- Vertical navigation (VNAV)
- Underspeed protection
- A dedicated “LVL” button for automatic return to straight-and-level flight
This last feature is a crucial safety measure for pilots who may be fatigued or disoriented.
“One of the primary motivations for pursuing this certification was the aerial firefighting fleet,” said Air Tractor President Jim Hirsch. Firefighting AT-802s often undertake long-distance missions across state and international borders. The integration of the GFC 600 with Garmin’s GPS navigators simplifies the cockpit environment for these demanding operations. The system is now available through authorized Garmin dealers or as a factory-installed option on new Air Tractor aircraft.
Manufactured in Olney, Texas, the AT-802 is among the most extensively used agricultural and aerial firefighting aircraft worldwide.
Source: Garmin Newsroom – June 17, 2026